While waterfalls are usually a sign of spring and summer, there’s something simply magical about seeing a waterfall in winter. These ice waterfalls in Virginia are breathtaking, appearing like a rare and majestic moment frozen in time. If you’re not opposed to the idea of bundling up and going for a little hike, your reward will be great. Here are seven spots where you can see some potentially dazzling frozen falls this winter in Virginia.

1. The Falls along Skyline Drive

Skyline Drive, Skyline Dr, Front Royal, VA, USA
alliecat1881/Flickr
During the better part of the year, these areas accumulate water. Come wintertime, the water freezes over into beautiful miniature cascades. You'll see them along Skyline Drive if driving conditions aren't too icy.

See what it’s like to drive along Skyline Drive in winter:

2. Frozen Falls at Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia, USA
carobe/flickr
This phenomenon also occurs at Shenandoah National Park, where you may see the frozen falls from the groundwater that seeps through the greenstone.

3. Great Falls Park

Great Falls Park, 9200 Old Dominion Dr, McLean, VA 22102, USA
Nicolas Raymond/flickr
One of the most beautiful parks in northern Virginia (McLean) transforms into a winter wonderland this time of year. With snow-covered rocks and icy-blue waters, you'll be in for a truly memorable visit at Great Falls Park.

Check out this snowy day at Great Falls Park:

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4. Jones Run Falls

Jones Run Falls Trailhead, Skyline Dr, Crozet, VA 22932, USA
Shannon McGee/Flickr
This scenic waterfall can be found just outside of Waynesboro in Shenandoah National Park. Beautiful at any time of year, the trail that leads to this fall is especially stunning with a little snow.

5. Upper Doyles River Falls

Skyline Drive, Skyline Dr, Front Royal, VA, USA
Shannon McGee/flickr
Not far from Jones Run, the Upper Doyles Trailhead can be found at mile 8.1 along Skyline Drive. This scenic set of falls is located just 1.5 miles from the parking area.

6. Aldie Dam

Aldie Dam, Middleburg, VA 20117, USA
Jessica Whittle/flickr
Aldie Dam looks particularly magical during the cold months. While not altogether frozen, the surrounding icicles and bare trees make a true winter spectacle.

Check out the beautiful area around Aldie Dam:

7. Travertine flowstone at Shenandoah Caverns

261 Caverns Rd, Quicksburg, VA 22847, USA
James St. John/flickr
This one's a bit of a stretch, but for anyone who would prefer to be a little warmer, there's a chance to see waterfall-esque rock formations at Shenandoah Caverns. Underground out of the bitter weather, you'll be able to admire the rocks that characteristically appear like frozen water.

As always, be sure to watch your step as you hike to these sites. Conditions can be slippery and potentially dangerous with ice. Which ice waterfalls in Virginia would you add to this list? We’d love to hear from you in the comments! To see more beautiful waterfalls check out these waterfall trails in Virginia, and check with AllTrails to make sure the trails are open!

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More to Explore

Natural Places of Beauty in Virginia

Will Suphan | December 05, 2023

What are the most incredible natural attractions in Virginia? 

The most incredible natural attractions in Virginia include:

  • The Channels. You can wander through these natural stone hallways near the town of Lebanon.
  • Natural Sand Caves. Formed by wind and erosion over millions of years this cave can be found at Cumberland Gap National Park.
  • Breaks Interstate Park. Considered the Grand Canyon of the South, this is the biggest canyon east of the Mississippi.
  • The Shenandoah Forest Canopy Walk. The views of this lush forest from the Sky Bridge are utterly breathtaking.

Learn more about the most incredible natural attractions in Virginia. 

What are some bucket list natural wonders in Virginia? 

Bucket list natural wonders in Virginia include:

  • Great Falls Park. This natural area is gorgeous and locals love to kayak and hike here.
  • Assateague Island National Wildlife Refuge. This is a barrier island shared by Maryland and Virginia with terrain that is stunning and rugged.
  • Devil's Marbleyard. This mountain made of boulders was shaped during the last Ice Age and is made up of broken ancient bedrock. 
  • Luray Caverns. Discovered in 1878, these lovely caves have a pool with water that resembles a sapphire.

Find out more about bucket list natural wonders in Virginia. 

What are the best hiking trails in Virginia? 

The best hiking trails in Virginia include:

  • Bluebell Trail. Nestled in Bull Run Regional Park, this trail meanders through fields of beautiful wildflowers that bloom during the spring.
  • Theodore Roosevelt Island. You’ll find this on the George Washington Memorial Parkway, and you’ll see historical points all along the trail.
  • Dark Hollow Falls. This challenging hike leads to splendid waterfalls that are worth the trek. You’ll be glad you stuck with it!
  • Union Mill Trail. This trail is alongside a stream in the Hemlock Overlook Regional Park and the stroll is magnificently relaxing.

Discover more about the best hiking trails in Virginia. 

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